The Newport Gwent Dragons can today announce the signing of Nathan Brew on a one-year contract from Principality Champions Neath.
Brew previously spent three years at Newport RFC and four at the Dragons before leaving Rodney Parade in 2007.
The 28-year-old, said: “I am ecstatic to be back here. If I am honest ever since I left the Dragons I have regretted it. I think the decision to leave was based upon wanting to test myself somewhere else and further my international ambitions.
“The move to the Scarlets just didn’t click and then Bristol got relegated. So I was left with two options; go to France or drop to the Premiership and get back to basics.
“I wanted to get back into the regions and I also have a new coaching company, SkillsCymru so I moved to Neath. I played about 20 games over the course of the season and really enjoyed my time there. I have got my hunger back for the game.
“But it is good to be back at the Dragons. I was with Newport for three years and the Dragons for four so it is terrific to be back. As I said, when I look back and ask myself why did I leave I always think it was the wrong decision, it was making a change for changes sake.
“I have really missed the set-up and environment here. If all of the regions had come in for me I would have always taken the Dragons; because of my own experience here and also the fact that Aled speaks so highly of the place. It is a very happy camp and of course their performances last year helped me in making my decision.
“For me, this year it is all about getting back into the scheme of things, I have been out of professional rugby for a year.
“I have one Wales cap and was on the bench three times, I would like to finish with more than just the one cap but it is all about getting back with the Dragons. I don’t think I am too dissimilar to Aled apart from I can also play in the centre. I will add that utility aspect that I can play in different positions.
“It’s a big season for me, hopefully I can get back. I am 28 and I still feel I have a good few years left. I want to regain a place in the squad. I am not expecting to be selected straight away but hopefully I can get back to the level I think I am capable of playing. I have only got a one-year contract but hopefully things will go well and I will be here a lot longer.”
Rugby Manager, Robert Beale added: “We are pleased to see Nathan back at the Dragons. He is an experienced centre or wing and we are really looking forward to him staking a claim in the Dragons team.
“He has been out of pro rugby for a couple of years but from what he has shown in pre-season training it shouldn’t take him long to get back up to speed. We are delighted to have him back at the Dragons.”
